Behringer Kobol Expander

This machine surprised me totally with it's very unique sound, and it's CV -controlling features; you can send sound in and out in a great variety of ways, connect it to many other synths, and waveforms can be changed in a nice flow - this synth gets me euphoric! And I must say that I'm not a beginner, and I do NOT recommend this synth to beginners. Why? For example at first there was something unique in it in a mysterious way, so that for a week or so when it arrived I couldn't somehow get a sound out of it! But when I finally realized how unique it is, and started to learn it's abilities, (because every synth is unique), the power-full sound was so "phat" and 'analogue' that I was in a state of awe before it! I was trying it in my mother's house, and she screamed when I finally started to play it! Also you can connect a MIDI keyboard to it too, but I have now concentrated in other things with it. For example right now it is connected to Behringer Crave, Korg Minilogue XD, Arturia Minibrute 2 and to an old and working Yamaha CS-5 (which have been customized/tuned/pimped so that is now has CV -abilities! Also, I have used Roland's small but great P-6 -sampler to push sounds through Kobol's AUDIO IN! So, what I'm saying is that Behringer's Kobol Expander is an unique machine, which can be used it many different ways, it is truly extremely versatile! Jimi Hendrix used to sleep with his guitar, and Kobol is a synth that make me want to do the same! :D Also I read a bit about the original Kobol's history, and there where few Kobols made in France in the 70's (about 300 machines, I think?), and although I can't prove it, I think that Daevid Allens band Gong used it! Kobol in itself, even when not connected to multiple other machines, has a beautiful and recognizable 'voice', and I think I hear that fore example in Gong's 'Live In Bataclan' -bootleg.

So: to me, it is a truly unique, but I would not recommend it to beginners. It is very versatil build like a tank, the knobs are very sensitive to touch. Connecting it to other machines through CV (although it has MIDI too etc.) is one way to use it, but you can push sounds from Minilogue XD through it or many ther ways you can find out with it; playing with is an adventure! I truly recommend it to freaks like me, and also it can be connected to Eurorack systems too if you wish, it comes with cable to connect it. But I just use it in my own shamanic way, and I must say it could be called a 'psychedelic synthesizer'! Peace out! (((((*)))))

The Behringer Kobol Expander is a modern take on the classic RSF Kobol Expander from the late '70s. This semi-modular analog synthesizer has garnered synth nerd's attention for its unique features and affordability. The Kobol Expander stays true to its roots with a semi-modular design that features 32 Eurorack patch points. It offers direct and real-time access through its 31 controls. Amazing honey drop sweet Dual VCOs capable of smooth morphing between seven waveforms, providing a wide frequency range (10Hz to 10kHz). These oscillators include sync and PWM functionalities, besides a 24dB low-pass filter known for its natural and immersive saturation. It also features an analog LFO, noise generator, and voltage processor for enhanced sound shaping​!

Conclusion
The Behringer Kobol Expander is an excellent choice for those looking to delve into modular synthesis without breaking the bank. Its blend of classic design, modern features, and extensive modulation capabilities make it a essencial addition to any synth Nerdenthusiast's setup​!

Tip: control Kobol by Cv/Gate with a 303 and you'll see what liquid Acid is!!!! :) ;)

This Synth is alright, looks good, sounds good and has the analogue sound you seek for. The knobs are plastic and don't feel so great, but you cannot expect more for this kind of money so I is is not a complaint, just an observation.
On the downside, it has some electronic pops sometimes and when you are recording it can bother, but it is not a big deal (I have not tried higher quality expanders, but I imagine it might be related to the quality of the components used and the construction).
Also, when you turn up and down the potentiomenters, the changes in sound are not so even, but again I don't know enough as to say if this is normal on any analog synth, maybe it is, it just makes you work more to achieve the sounds you like.
Overall a nice tool for such a low price, you can have a go it is not something you will repent buying, for sure, it is enjoyable and totally usable in terms of sound, but I'm guessing not as precise as higher level ones, like most of things in this world!

This is my first real analogue mono synth. Compared with the VAs I own, all those knobs are a real plus. After some initial fiddling I started to feel right at home with this synthesizer. The synth has an interesting VCO design with a variable waveform selection. Noise (white / pink) is also much appreciated. Base drums and snares, no problem.The ADS (no R) section is strange though, but that is as it is on the original. When recording you need to be on the knobs, since the MIDI interface only does note on/off. This can be a plus or a minus, depending on what you expect. Knobs feel sufficiently solid. A second (and third) one is (are) on my list...

My overall conclusion, I'm a happy owner.

Hands up if you've played an RSF Kobol before? I've never even seen one, but now I have the Expander as part of my semi-modular analogue setup, and for the price of four takeaway pizzas pretty much (for two - pizza is expensive here). Having got the WASP, CAT, and 2600M, plus Odyssey keyboard, the Kobol is the one that adds a unique and usable sound with a depth and quality that the DCO-based WASP can't touch, and without stepping too much on the Odyssey's toes.

If I didn't have an Odyssey, the Kobol and an MS-1 MkII would be a great low-cost setup, and that's what I really like about it. The real hardware would costs thousands, but this almost-accurate replication (there are subtle differences on the boards/schematics, of course, and some components do differ) is enough to deliver the distinctive Kobol signature to your tracks.

It's an accessible synth to program and patch, albeit with a few quirks when setting up triggering. The knobs are bespoke to this unit, matching the original in style, and with tuning reference points it's very straightforward for newbies to get confident building a patch from beginning.

The Kobol's filter is not an SSM2040 clone, but a discrete component interpretation of the design. It sounds lovely – and of course, there's the ability to add more control with external sources.

In a time when digital tech and menu diving is the norm, the Kobol can appear simple – yet it's extremely versatile and worth taking time to learn and become familiar with the subtle interaction of the controls.

It's a great synthesizer for a fantastic price, regardless of the history, though, and should be one of the first considered when looking for classic analogue sounds – it's a lot easier to use than the CAT, and a lot less familar than the endless recreations of 3-oscillator Moogness. And it's way, way more versatile and pleasant sounding than the WASP, for not much more money.